Bees
Natural pollinator
Increase fruit size, yield, quality
Various habitats
Pesticides
Protect the growth of strawberries *
Fungicide: prevent fungal disease *
insecticide: control insects *
What’s the change of bee-harmed pesticides
usage across states and why?
Citation: https://www.agmrc.org/commodities-products/fruits/strawberries
Reduction of usage in 2018, but bounced back in 2019
More varieties of pesticides used over three years
Same pattern as amount of pesticides
More high bee-toxin pesticides were used
Florida surpassed California in the usage of pesticides
Pesticides lead to distinction of 41% insects in next few decades
Neonics: far-reaching effects on bees, birds, etc.
Build-up effects on environment: underground water, soil
High bee-toxicity pesticides should be limited
EU expanded ban on three types of bee-harmful pesticides in 2018
US banned 12 pesticides in 2019; followed by a total ban in 2020 by EPA
2019, California banned pesticides that harm children growth
Florida pesticides companies challenged bans
Modest solutions by EPA (Environment Protection Agency)
Limit the time window for use of pesticides
Integrated Pest Management plan: cultural, mechanical, and biological pest controls
Leave a buffer area between treated areas and areas where wildlife may be present
Take care when planting treated seeds to prevent dust that could affect bees
Citation: https://www.epa.gov/safepestcontrol/integrated-pest-management-ipm-principles
Any Question?